Questions about your insurance?

Dealing with insurance can be stressful. We are here to help.

Insurance can be confusing for patients. We always try to contact your insurance prior to your first appointment with us to get a full breakdown, and are happy to look into specific details for you. Here is some of the basic information that we think benefits our patients to understand about insurance and how it is used.

Is your plan running by calendar year, or policy year?

This is important because this is when your maximum dollar amount will renew. Many patients make decisions about when to get major work, such as crowns, and implants based on this timing.

Does your plan have a maximum amount you can spend?

Is it different for basic and major services? Many plans have a maximum dollar amount per year that they allow you to spend and some are unlimited. Knowing this helps patients’ budget for any out-of-pocket expenses that their insurance will not cover.

How often does your plan cover you for a checkup?

This can range between unlimited to yearly depending on the plan. At West Block Dental we do check this for patients, however it is always a good idea to know at what frequency your plan covers this if you choose to go elsewhere.

Does your insurance cover orthodontics, and if so, is there an age limit?

Many plans cover a portion of orthodontics for children between the ages of 6-18, but some do not also cover adult orthodontics. This would include retainers, appliances such as space maintainers, clear aligner orthodontics, and wired braces. If you are interested in this treatment, we are always happy to send a treatment plan to your insurance and check if you will be covered.

If you have secondary insurance, and which insurance is billed first?

This can be from a spouse, parent, or a second employer if you have more than one job that provides insurance. For children who are covered by both parents, the parent with the earlier birth date is the primary plan holder. Many post-secondary schools provide student insurance automatically as well so always check with your student association to see if you have that extra coverage.

Where can I find out more details on my insurance?

It is always beneficial to download the app that your insurance company uses for easy access and submission. You can check balances, submit claims and preauthorization’s, as well as change your details easily with your insurance, instead of waiting on hold with them (because who has time for that?!)

We are always happy to answer any questions regarding your insurance. Weather you are a patient of ours, or just considering getting dental treatment done.